What does breast reduction involve?

Breast reduction removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to achieve a size better proportioned to the body. The nipple and areola are repositioned and the breast is reshaped for a lifted, more balanced contour. For many patients, it addresses years of physical discomfort — neck and back strain, skin irritation and postural issues — as much as it addresses appearance.

Am I a good candidate?

Good candidates experience physical symptoms related to breast size — chronic neck, shoulder or back discomfort, bra strap grooving, skin irritation under the fold, or difficulty with physical activity. Aesthetic concerns are equally valid. A stable weight and good general health are important prerequisites.

What technique will be used?

The technique is tailored to your anatomy and the degree of reduction needed. A vertical (lollipop) incision suits moderate reductions; an anchor or inverted-T incision addresses more significant reductions or greater skin removal. Your surgeon will explain which approach best suits your case.

Will I lose nipple sensation?

Temporary changes in nipple sensation are common and typically resolve as healing progresses. Permanent changes are possible and more likely with larger reductions. Most techniques preserve the nipple on a tissue pedicle to maintain blood supply and nerve connections — but individual outcomes vary.

Will I still be able to breastfeed?

Breastfeeding after reduction may be affected, as some milk ducts are disrupted during surgery. Most techniques aim to preserve as much of the ductal network as possible, but it cannot be guaranteed. If breastfeeding is a priority, raise it at consultation so your surgeon can account for it in the plan.

What does recovery look like?

Most patients take one to two weeks away from work. The first few days involve the most fatigue and tightness. Strenuous activity and lifting are avoided for four to six weeks. Many patients report relief from physical discomfort very early in recovery.

Where are incisions placed and how visible are scars?

Incisions are placed around the areola, down the lower pole and, in many cases, along the crease — concealed beneath clothing and swimwear. Scars improve substantially over 12 to 18 months with proper care and sun protection.

How long do results last?

Results are long-lasting when weight remains stable. Significant weight fluctuation or future pregnancy can alter the outcome.

Every surgical procedure carries some degree of risk. Most issues that arise after a breast reduction are minor and resolve with proper care. Serious complications are uncommon. Your surgeon will walk through everything relevant to your specific health history before surgery so you feel fully informed going in.

In the weeks before surgery, we provide a personalized preparation plan. This typically covers optimizing your health, pausing medications and supplements that can increase bleeding, and avoiding nicotine, which impairs healing. We’ll also help you plan the practical details — time off work, prescriptions, and arranging a ride home with some support for the first day or two.

What should I expect during the consultation?

Your consultation begins with a conversation. Dr. Armstrong wants to understand what you see and what you hope to change. She examines the area and walks you through your options with complete candour, including what surgery can and cannot achieve. You leave with a clear recommendation, realistic expectations, a personalized quote, and answers to every question you came in with.

Is the surgeon board-certified?

Yes. Dr. Katie Armstrong is a Royal College–certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon (FRCSC) with hospital affiliation in Toronto. Certification reflects years of accredited surgical training and a commitment to ongoing standards of safety and excellence.

Where is it performed?

Surgery is performed at GraceMed Mississauga, in partnership with the McLean Clinic — Dr. Armstrong’s primary practice, home to a fully accredited surgical facility and an experienced surgical team, with dedicated anesthesia care throughout. Your consultation, pre-operative appointments and follow-up care all take place at the same location: 50 Burnhamthorpe Rd W, Suite 343, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C2.

Breast Reduction Toronto | Reduction Mammoplasty

Overview

What is breast reduction?

Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) removes excess breast tissue and skin to create a lighter, better-proportioned chest. For many patients it relieves chronic neck, back and shoulder pain, skin irritation and activity limitations.

Dr. Armstrong tailors the technique and target size to your frame and goals, balancing symptom relief with a natural, proportionate result and well-placed incisions.

Breast Reduction imagery

The process

What to expect

Step 1
Consultation
Meet with Dr. Armstrong to discuss your goals, explore your options, and receive personalized recommendations and a detailed quote.
Step 2
Surgical planning
We confirm your procedure, select your surgery date, and provide guidance on the next steps.
Step 3
Pre-operative appointment
About one month before surgery, our RN reviews your medical history in detail and explains how to prepare for surgery, what to expect on the day, and how to manage your post-operative care.
Step 4
Surgery day
Your procedure is performed by Dr. Armstrong and her surgical team, with your safety and comfort closely monitored throughout.
Step 5
Recovery & follow-up
Dr. Armstrong and her team monitor your healing, answer your questions, and support you throughout your recovery.

Candidacy

Am I a candidate?

A breast reduction tends to suit patients who recognize themselves in most of the points below. The only way to know for certain is an in-person assessment, and Dr. Armstrong will confirm your candidacy at your consultation.

You experience neck, back or shoulder strain related to breast size
Bra straps groove your shoulders, or exercise and clothing are a struggle
You are in good general health and a non-smoker (or willing to stop around surgery)
Your weight is reasonably stable
You have realistic expectations about sizing, scars and recovery

Healing, step by step

Recovery timeline

Every patient heals at their own pace. This is the typical arc, and your personal plan and follow-ups are tailored to you.

Day 1
Home the same day in a supportive surgical bra, with a helper for the first night.
Week 1
Rest with short walks; many patients notice early relief from shoulder and neck strain as swelling starts to settle.
Weeks 1–2
Most patients return to desk-based work as comfort improves.
Weeks 4–6
Cleared gradually for full activity; heavy lifting and strenuous exercise stay restricted until then.
Months 3–12
Scars fade with your scar-care plan and the final, lighter shape settles in.

Before & after

Breast Reduction results

A few of Dr. Armstrong's most recent breast reduction results, shared with patient consent. She'll walk you through more — matched to your goals — at your consultation. Every result is individual.

Before

After

Patient 1

Breast Reduction

Combined with: Tummy Tuck

Individual results may vary.

Before

After

Patient 2

Breast Reduction

Individual results may vary.

Before

After

Patient 3

Breast Reduction

Individual results may vary.

View the full Breast Reduction gallery →

Your investment

Planning for Breast Reduction

Every surgical plan is individual, and your exact quote is provided after your consultation. Starting prices are listed on our pricing page, and financing is available through our partner, Beautifi, should you wish to spread the cost over time. To begin, we invite you to book a consultation.

Breast Reduction

What is breast reduction?

What to expect

Consultation

Surgical planning

Pre-operative appointment

Surgery day

Recovery & follow-up

Am I a candidate?

Recovery timeline